The Blood Science Laboratory in Stockport NHS Foundation Trust’s pathology department have been presented with a top award in recognition of their efforts to enhance sustainability.
They received My Green Lab (Gold) certification, a globally recognised standard for laboratory sustainability.
The department was presented with a plaque and certificate from the national My Green Lab team, together with Siemens Healthineers, who supported the certification process. A presentation cake was also shared with colleagues to mark the achievement.
The My Green Lab certification is widely regarded as the ‘gold standard’ for sustainable laboratory practices. The program provides a science-based approach with clear assessment tools and practical guidance to help laboratories reduce their environmental footprint.
By undergoing this rigorous process, the teams in Biochemistry and Haematology based at Stepping Hill Hospital have demonstrated a deep commitment to environmental responsibility. The certification recognises the laboratories’ efforts to embed sustainability into its daily operations, from reducing energy consumption to minimising waste and promoting more efficient resource use.
This initiative is part of a broader sustainability commitment by Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. Their joint Green Plan together with partners Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust has a strategy to reduce the environmental impact of their activities and provides a roadmap to achieving their net zero goals.
Laboratories are often significant consumers of energy and resources, and by implementing sustainable practices, the laboratory is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also improving efficiency, reducing costs and creating a healthier working environment for its staff.
“It is fantastic to see our laboratory team recognised with this award for their outstanding commitment to sustainability,” said Laura Swann, Sustainability Manager at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. “Achieving the ambitions set out in our Trust Green Plan and reducing our carbon emissions requires colleagues across the organisation to take ownership of sustainability and drive change within their own teams. This project is an excellent example of staff proactively embracing that responsibility and delivering meaningful environmental benefits. I would like to extend my thanks to everyone involved, including our partners at My Green Lab and Siemens, as well as our pathology colleagues, whose dedication, collaboration and hard work have made this achievement possible.”
Mark Gordon, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Associate Divisional Director for Pathology said; “Pathology involves the necessary utilisation of single use plastic and consumables, and so tends to be a large consumer of resources. The steps our staff are taking to address sustainability are having a really positive impact, and show the will and desire to improve our environmental contribution. It’s great to have this recognition from My Green Lab for our efforts.”
Becky Moore, Siemens Healthineers Social Value & Sustainability Manager – Northwest Europe said; “We are delighted to assist the Blood Science Laboratory My Green Lab certification. It is a significant achievement that reflects the dedication of the team to embedding more sustainable practices into their day-to-day operations. At Siemens Healthineers, we’re proud to support our customers in turning their sustainability ambitions into meaningful action and helping to build a more sustainable future for healthcare.”
The presentation was celebrated with a commemorative cake